India, Nov. 5 -- The Government of India has issued a release:
Union Minister of Science & Technology Dr. Jitendra Singh today lauded the launch of the historic Rs.1 Lakh Crore Research, Development, and Innovation (RDI) Fund Scheme by PM Narendra Modi, describing it as a transformative milestone in India's scientific journey.
Delivering the Valedictory Address at the first Emerging Science, Technology & Innovation Conclave (ESTIC 2025) at Bharat Mandapam, Dr. Jitendra Singh expressed pride and optimism at the success of the three-day conclave which, he said, "transformed Bharat Mandapam into a true temple of innovation, where ideas met inspiration, research met relevance, and discovery met determination."
Dr. Jitendra Singh said that India is on the path to becoming a global hub of scientific talent, technology creation, and innovation-led growth, driven by the mission 2047.
"Prime Minister Narendra Modi, despite his hectic schedule, gave a full hour to this event, underlining the Government's highest priority for science and innovation. His address touched upon all critical domains, from biofortified crops and nutritional security to personalized medicine, clean energy, and biofertilizers," Dr. Jitendra Singh said.
The Minister commended the Office of the Principal Scientific Adviser for conceptualizing and coordinating the Conclave, which brought together 13 Ministries and Departments to align national priorities in emerging research and innovation domains. He also appreciated the participation of Nobel Laureate Sir Andre Geim, and several distinguished scientists, thought leaders, and industry pioneers, whose deliberations across 11 thematic frontiers will shape a strategic roadmap for the next decade.
Highlighting the participation of young researchers and deep-tech start-ups, Dr. Singh said their energy, ingenuity, and commitment reflected the "spirit of New India's innovation." He noted that the poster and start-up sessions served as a valuable networking platform for young innovators seeking collaborations and investments.
"Many of our young participants are new entrants to the world of academic presentations. We must guide them to communicate their research effectively and evolve as future science leaders," he said.
The Minister proposed organizing virtual workshops for poster presenters to improve presentation quality and enhance learning outcomes. Dr. Jitendra Singh also suggested that future editions of ESTIC could institutionalize structured interactions between start-ups and investors, helping connect promising innovators with potential partners.
"Investors who attend such events are not here just to observe; they seek tangible collaborations. If we can match start-up profiles with suitable investors in advance, we can facilitate productive engagements," he added.
The Minister further recommended that future conclaves adopt a single rapporteur system to summarize thematic discussions, ensuring concise and effective reporting while saving time during plenary sessions.
Dr. Jitendra Singh said the Conclave exemplified the 'Whole-of-Government, Whole-of-Nation' approach envisioned by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, bringing together ministries, academia, and industry on one platform. He noted that the deliberations will contribute to the long-term goals of the Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF), the institutional backbone for convergence between academia, industry, and government.
He also praised the VAIBHAV Fellowship sessions held alongside ESTIC 2025, which showcased the passion of Indian-origin scientists across the globe to contribute meaningfully to their motherland. "The VAIBHAV Fellows' enthusiasm went beyond academic collaboration; it reflected emotional and intellectual commitment to the nation. We must find structured ways to engage them further," he said.
Concluding his address, Dr. Jitendra Singh said that ESTIC 2025 marks the beginning of a new chapter in India's scientific evolution. The ideas and collaborations emerging from the Conclave, he said, will be translated into actionable policies and programs aligned with Viksit Bharat 2047.
"Our goal is clear, to make India a global powerhouse of science, innovation, and technology. Your ideas, your collaborations, and your experiments are the building blocks of a self-reliant, future-ready nation," Dr. Jitendra Singh said, extending his appreciation to all ministries, scientific institutions, and industries for making ESTIC 2025 a grand success.
Disclaimer: Curated by HT Syndication.
